People were questioned in Mumbai (Bombay), Calcutta, Delhi and Madras (Chennai) - four powerhouses of India's fast-expanding economy.

Our correspondent says that with a growth rate of well over 6%, many Indians simply believe that the Bush administration is good for business, and that its strong desire to forge closer trade ties is a key component of India's stunning economic success.

Ahead of November's presidential election loud concerns were expressed in the Indian business community that a victory for John Kerry might sour the burgeoning economic relationship.

The Democratic candidate frequently voiced support for restrictions on US companies wishing to out-source jobs abroad.

Mr Bush adopted a much more laissez-faire approach.

US influence

The survey found that 47% of the 21,953 people questioned now see US influence in the world as largely negative, and view Americans negatively as well.

None of the countries polled supported contributing their troops to Iraq.

Just 18% of Indians were in favour, reflecting fierce opposition by both politicians and public to contributing to the military effort despite repeated US requests.

Asked about overall US influence in the world, the poll suggests Indians are also less positive, although a majority - 54% - were still in favour.

This might be explained by a certain wariness about Washington's relationship with India's rival, Pakistan, which is a key partner in America's war on terror, our correspondent says.

PIPA interviewed between 500 and 1,800 people in each of the 21 countries surveyed, plus 1,000 Americans, in face-to-face or telephone interviews.

The interviews took place between 15 November 2004 and 5 January 2005. The margin of error is between 2.5 and 4 points, depending on the country.